Q&A

What is the Alien's Travel Permit?

Non-Chinese nationals are required valid passport, Chinese visa and the Aliens’ Travel Permit to travel in Tibet. To obtain this Alien’s Travel Permit issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, tourists must have licensed Tibetan agencies to organize their tours, and must be accompanied by guide throughout. Non-Chinese nationals and Taiwan Chinese are prohibited to travel independently in Tibet. Foreign diplomats and journalists are prohibited to enter Tibet as tourists.

What statue of person is called “foreign tourist”?

"Foreign tourist" here refers to the person who doesn't hold Chinese ID card. For Taiwan people who have "TaiboZheng" still need to get permit for traveling in Tibet. Hongkong and Macao people now are in freely need of permit.

Which documents are required to apply for the Permit?

For tourists holding L visas, the following documents are required. 1) copy of passport main page 2) copy of valid Chinese visa 3) occupation information
For tourists holding any other type visas, the following documents are required. 1) copy of passport main page 2) copy of valid Chinese visa 3) original copy of Justification of Employment
It's advised to submit the above documents, together with confirmed tour dates and itinerary, at least two weeks in advance.

Is independent tour allowed in Tibet?

Independent tour is prohibited in Tibet. You should take part in an organized group or have the specific travel operator to arrange for you.

What is the best season for tour in Tibet?

Generally speaking, from April to October is the best season for Tibet tour. However, having a winter tour can be pleasant if you don't mind the cold weather. You can avoid the tourist crowds, and economical accommodations and transportation are more available.

How to enter Tibet?

By air, there are several routes are available now: Beijing-Lhasa, Shanghai-Lhasa, Chengdu -Lhasa,Xi'an-Lhasa, Xining-Lhasa, Guangzhou-Lhasa, Chongqing-Lhasa, Kathmandu-Lhasa. By land, the possible routes are: Qinghai-Lhasa, Sichuan-Lhasa, Yunnan-Lhasa and Kathmandu-Lhasa. However, land transportation takes much longer time, and can be very tough, especially the Sichuan-Lhasa route.

Can I travel in Tibet by bus? I really can't afford the car.

Yes, but very limited, only Golmud (of Qinghai Province)-Lhasa. And this route is subject to change, not always available.

What are some popular places in Tibet?

Lhasa, Tsedang, Gyantse, Shigatse, Tingri, Zhangmu etc. are the most popular places in Tibet, for both normal and trekking itineraries. For expedition, Mt. Everest and Mt. Kailash are the most exciting and accessible areas.

What medicines should I bring for the high elevation?

Try to bring the following medicines that will be very useful during your travel: cold and flu tablets, throat lozenges, nasal decongestant, Aspirin, Multivitamins. Or you can ask your local doctor for suggestions.

What should I bring for the plateau weather?

Tibet's high altitude and the atmosphere allow the sun's solar radiation to strike the earth with unusual intensity. It's very easy to get sun-burnt there. Sunscreen of high sun protection factor,quality sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are good means of protection. Calamine lotion is good for mild sun-burnt. Those with fair complexions should bring reflective sunscreen with them. Apply the sunscreen to your nose and lips as well.

What can I do with Tibetan beggars?

Religious beggars are an accepted part of society in Tibet. Giving money or food to a pilgrim is considered an act of merit. Donations of five fen to two jiao (Chinese currency) are appropriate. Please note: if the beggars are the old men and women who dress in shredded, bulky clothes, while the younger ones may have a monkey on a chain, it's a spectacle of great interest to the Tibetans.These beggars are professionals, having less meritorious intentions than religious pilgrims. Just wave them off as the locals do if you don't want give anything.

What should I keep in mind when I contact with the Tibetans?

Tibetan people are very kind and hospitable, you can feel free to talk with them. But there are some rulers you should go by:
Do not photo them without permission, please show the respect to them!
Do not talk about the sensitive topics like political or the religious matters!
Do not eat dog, donkey or horse in Tibet!

Other than Chinese currency, what else currency is acceptable in Tibet?

USD is acceptable only in a very limited range, e.g. tips. However, for convenience, Chinese currency is the best choice. If you want to change USD to Chinese currency in Tibet, you can change in Lhasa Hotel or the Bank of China in Lhasa.

Can children or elder people travel to Tibet?

The general answer is YES! When it comes to a family tour, the physical saftey of children and elders becomes a big concern. Contrary to this common concern, high alitutde doesn’t pose more challenge to children or elders. As a matter of fact, our long-time oberservation reveals they seem to have better adaption to the high alitude, and are less troubled by the alitutde sickness (no scientific or medial support to justify this phenomena though). The youngest customer we had is 3-year old, while the oldest is 78 years. However, elder people with heart or lung disease, hypertension or serious anemia are advised NOT to enter Tibet.

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